Tony Watson makes sense for the Red Sox bullpen

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As currently constructed the Red Sox have Robby Scott as the lone left-handed reliever in the bullpen. Brian Johnson, Roenis Elias and possibly Eduardo Rodriguez provide internal backup options.

With the inexperience of the current lefties, Dave Dombrowski should explore the free-agent market inquire on Tony Watson.

Watson made a name for himself as one of the top left handed relievers over his 6-year career with the Pirates. He has averaged 68 appearances, 65.0 innings, 58 strikeouts, and only 8 walks. In addition, he’s posted a strong 7.9 K/9 ratio.

For his career, Watson has thrown a reasonable 453.0 innings to a 2.53 ERA with 30 career saves.

Despite finding success, he was not just a situational lefty. Right-handers hit a mere .280 against him in 2017.

The Red Sox sorely need experience at the back end of the bullpen and adding a guy like Tony Watson could provide that. The lefty can close games, as well as dominate in situational moments.

Robby Scott provided flashes of brilliance in 2017, but was largely overshadowed by repetitive inconsistency. In April & May, he posted a 1.93 and 1.23 ERA. Despite early success, he subsequently posted a 4.05 / 5.64 / 3.18 / 8.10 ERA to close the season.

The Red Sox need consistency and while they seem likely to move Brian Johnson to the bullpen, adding an arm like Tony Watson could solve a lot of problems.